MORE than 3,500 people united against dementia at a national charity’s biggest North-East memory walk.

Relatives and friends of those affected by the condition came together at Bents Park, in South Shields, for the Alzheimer’s Society’s flagship regional event.

Rebecca Scott, senior mass participation events officer for Memory Walk, said: “Those taking part in the walk were playing a vital role in bringing us one step closer to a world without dementia. We’re hoping to raise in excess of £200,000, money that will go towards research into finding a cure, improving treatment and supporting people affected by the condition through a range of services.”

Actor and comedian Richard McCourt, best known as one half of CBBC duo Dick and Dom, cut the ribbon to get the 7km walk underway on Saturday.

The star, whose mother, Mary, died with dementia when she was just 64, is now an Alzheimer’s Society ambassador and has appeared at several major events.

Addressing the crowd, he said: “I lost my mum at a very young age. It was a very difficult time for myself and my family, so I know what it’s like to have to cope with this disease, as I’m sure many of you do too.

“And that’s why we’re all here, to try to raise money to find a cure for dementia and to fund vital services to help people cope with the disease.”

Saturday’s event will be followed by the first ever Tyneside Night Walk, which sets off at 7pm on Saturday, October 13, from Baltic Square, Gateshead, before crossing the river and following a 6.5km route along Newcastle’s quayside.